By Nandita Sisodia
Recently, I met Parwati, a domestic worker in her 40s. People around her often thought she wasn’t paying attention or didn’t understand instructions. When I spoke to her, I discovered the truth — Parwati was hard of hearing. For years, she had silently struggled, misunderstood by neighbors, employers, and even family.
I immediately took her to an ENT specialist, who recommended a hearing aid. But the device was expensive and completely beyond her means. Given her family situation, there was no way she could afford it.
I discussed the matter with my husband, Pradeep Sisodia, vice president of the Rotary Club Chandigarh Midtown, Chandigarh, India, and we decided to reach out to our Rotary family. The response was overwhelming — members came forward generously, and within no time, the funds were arranged. The very next day, Parwati underwent testing and was fitted with the hearing aid.
Transformation
The moment she heard clearly, her face lit up with an incredible smile. Tears filled her eyes as she whispered to me:
“Didi, you have changed everything in my life.”
Today, Parwati works with renewed confidence. Her family and employers are delighted by the transformation. She can communicate clearly, follow instructions, and engage with the world with joy.
This experience reminded me that when compassion is combined with collective effort, even the impossible becomes possible. I am grateful to my Rotary family for making this miracle happen and proud that together, we could bring back not just hearing, but hope, confidence, and joy to someone’s life.
https://blog.rotary.org/2026/03/17/from-silence-to-smiles-rotarys-gift-of-hearing-to-parwati/